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Misfit Sentence/Odd One Out Question

33. Five sentences related to a topic are given below. Four of them can be put together to form a meaningful and coherent short paragraph. Identify the odd one out.

1. Over the past fortnight, one of its finest champions managed to pull off a similar impression.

2. Wimbledon’s greatest illusion is the sense of timelessness it evokes.

3. At 35 years and 342 days, Roger Federer became the oldest man to win the singles title in the Open Era - a full 14 years after he first claimed the title as a scruffy, pony-tailed upstart.

4. Once he had survived the opening week, the second week witnessed the range of a rested Federer’s genius.

5. Given that his method isn’t reliant on explosive athleticism or muscular ball-striking, both vulnerable to decay, there is cause to believe that Federer will continue to enchant for a while longer.

Solution with Explanation

Answer: 4

Detailed explanation by Wordpandit:

Clearly, the sentences are supposed to form a paragraph about the timelessness of Roger Federer – and hence of Wimbledon by extension.

Sentences 1, 2, and 3 specifically discuss the theme of timelessness.

Sentence 4 talks about Federer’s game in a specific time frame, but it does not contribute to the underlying theme. It focuses only on one particular fortnight and doesn’t add to the bigger idea of enduring brilliance or timelessness. It also feels incomplete and context-dependent.

Sentence 5, however, reinforces the central idea by suggesting Federer’s playing style allows him to remain effective despite age – thus adding to the timelessness theme.

Hence, 4 is the correct answer.

Word-1: Illusion

Context:

"Wimbledon’s greatest illusion is the sense of timelessness it evokes." – Sports Feature Commentary

Explanatory Paragraph:

An "illusion" is something that appears real or true but is actually false or misleading. In this context, Wimbledon—an iconic tennis tournament—gives off an impression of being untouched by time, as if it exists outside change or modern influence. But this is an illusion, as even Wimbledon adapts and evolves. The word highlights the gap between appearance and reality, making it ideal for discussing perception versus truth in both physical and emotional experiences.

Meaning: A false idea or belief; a deceptive appearance or impression (Noun)

Pronunciation: ih-LOO-zhun

Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic

Etymology: From Latin *illusio* (mockery, deceit), from *illudere* (to mock, to trick), based on *ludere* (to play)

Prashant Sir's Notes:

“Illusion” is commonly used in literature, psychology, and social commentary. It’s not just about visual tricks—it’s also about emotional or social misperceptions. It’s a fantastic word to explore the line between perception and truth, especially in critical analysis or storytelling.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms: mirage, deception, trick, fantasy, appearance

Antonyms: reality, truth, fact, certainty

Usage Examples:

The magician created the illusion of a floating woman on stage.
The calm in the office was just an illusion—tension was building beneath the surface.
Social media often promotes an illusion of a perfect life.
Wimbledon’s old-world charm gives the illusion that nothing has changed in decades.

Cultural Reference:

"In Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, the shadows on the wall represent illusions mistaken for reality—a cornerstone of Western philosophical thought." – Philosophy 101

Think About It:

Can illusions sometimes be comforting or even necessary—or must they always be challenged?

Quick Activity:

Write one sentence about an illusion you’ve encountered—visual, emotional, or social—and what it hid from you.

Memory Tip:

Think: *Illusion = I lose sense of what’s real*. It’s a trick played on your mind or eyes.

Real-World Application:

"Illusion" is useful in critical thinking, media literacy, psychology, and the arts. It helps describe how appearances can mislead us and why we must look deeper for truth.

Word-2: Timelessness

Context:

"Wimbledon’s greatest illusion is the sense of timelessness it evokes." – Sports Feature Commentary

Explanatory Paragraph:

"Timelessness" refers to the quality of being unaffected by the passage of time—something that seems eternal, enduring, or classic. In the context of Wimbledon, the word captures how the tournament creates an atmosphere that feels unchanged and constant, despite the modern world evolving around it. This sense of timelessness is part of Wimbledon’s charm, giving spectators the impression they’ve stepped into a tradition preserved through decades, if not centuries.

Meaning: The state or quality of being eternal, ageless, or unaffected by time (Noun)

Pronunciation: TIME-less-ness

Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic

Etymology: From “time” + “-less” (without) + “-ness” (state of being); literally means "the condition of being without time"

Prashant Sir's Notes:

"Timelessness" is often used in art, literature, and cultural commentary to describe something with enduring value or beauty. It's ideal for describing works or experiences that transcend trends and retain relevance across generations. Use it when discussing legacy, classic style, or eternal truths.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms: eternity, permanence, immortality, classic quality, agelessness

Antonyms: temporariness, modernity, transience, ephemerality

Usage Examples:

The painting’s beauty lies in its sense of timelessness.
Wimbledon maintains a timelessness through its traditions and strict dress codes.
Her voice has a timelessness that appeals to listeners across generations.
The architecture of the temple conveys a feeling of spiritual timelessness.

Cultural Reference:

"The concept of timelessness in fashion refers to pieces that never go out of style—like the little black dress or a well-tailored blazer." – Fashion History Overview

Think About It:

Can something truly possess timelessness, or is it simply a feeling we project onto things we love?

Quick Activity:

List one book, one place, and one song that you feel embody timelessness. Write a short phrase explaining why.

Memory Tip:

“Timelessness” = *no time*. Think of a moment so powerful, beautiful, or constant that time seems to stop.

Real-World Application:

"Timelessness" is used in branding, literary analysis, art critique, and cultural heritage discussions. It describes what stands the test of time—ideas, works, or institutions with lasting relevance.

Word-3: Upstart

Context:

"At 35 years and 342 days, Roger Federer became the oldest man to win the singles title in the Open Era – a full 14 years after he first claimed the title as a scruffy, pony-tailed upstart." – Sports Feature Commentary

Explanatory Paragraph:

An "upstart" is someone who has risen suddenly to fame, power, or prominence—often in a way that surprises or annoys others. In this context, the word paints a vivid picture of a young Federer, full of raw talent and confidence, bursting onto the tennis scene. The term can sometimes carry a slightly negative or cheeky tone, suggesting that the newcomer may be a little bold or unpolished. It’s often used to describe disruptive newcomers in any field—from sports to business to politics.

Meaning: A person who has risen suddenly to a position of power or fame, often seen as presumptuous (Noun)

Pronunciation: UP-start

Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic

Etymology: From Middle English *upstarten* (to jump up suddenly), combining “up” + “start”; later used as a noun to describe those who rise quickly and unexpectedly

Prashant Sir's Notes:

"Upstart" is a vivid word that often carries a tone of rebellion, ambition, or sudden success. It’s great for storytelling—especially when describing someone who defies expectations or breaks into an established scene. Use it carefully—it can be admiring, critical, or ironic depending on tone.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms: newcomer, novice, challenger, rebel, disruptor

Antonyms: veteran, established figure, elder, traditionalist

Usage Examples:

He arrived on the political scene as a brash upstart, challenging old ideas.
The tech upstart disrupted the industry with its innovative model.
Federer was once seen as a flashy upstart but grew into a revered legend.
Many underestimated the upstart, but she proved her critics wrong.

Cultural Reference:

"In Shakespeare's *Henry VI*, the term 'upstart crow' was used to insult playwrights who rose too quickly—highlighting how upstarts have long been viewed with a mix of suspicion and admiration." – Literary History

Think About It:

Why do people sometimes react negatively to upstarts—even when their talent or ideas are undeniable?

Quick Activity:

Think of a person in sports, business, or entertainment who was once called an upstart. Write one sentence about their early rise.

Memory Tip:

Think: *Upstart = someone who starts up suddenly*. Like a rocket launch—fast, bold, and eye-catching.

Real-World Application:

"Upstart" is frequently used in sports journalism, business media, and biographies. It describes newcomers who disrupt norms and rise quickly—sometimes with admiration, sometimes with skepticism.

Word-4: Vulnerable

Context:

"Given that his method isn’t reliant on explosive athleticism or muscular ball-striking, both vulnerable to decay, there is cause to believe that Federer will continue to enchant for a while longer." – Sports Commentary

Explanatory Paragraph:

"Vulnerable" refers to being exposed to the possibility of harm, damage, or decline—either physically or emotionally. In this context, the writer suggests that explosive athleticism and physical power, unlike Federer’s more graceful, strategic style, are *vulnerable to decay* as an athlete ages. The word emphasizes fragility or susceptibility and is frequently used in health, emotional well-being, and performance-related contexts.

Meaning: Susceptible to physical or emotional harm or decline (Adjective)

Pronunciation: VUL-ner-uh-bul

Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate

Etymology: From Latin *vulnerabilis*, from *vulnus* (wound), meaning "able to be wounded"

Prashant Sir's Notes:

"Vulnerable" is a key word when discussing human limitations—whether emotional, physical, or social. In writing, it brings a sense of realism and humility. Be mindful of tone: it can convey empathy, caution, or even urgency. It’s also great for describing shifting strengths and weaknesses.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms: exposed, susceptible, fragile, defenseless, weak

Antonyms: protected, resilient, invulnerable, secure, strong

Usage Examples:

Children are especially vulnerable to infections during the winter months.
His strategy avoids the parts of his game most vulnerable to age-related decline.
She felt vulnerable sharing her personal story with the group.
The economy is vulnerable to global market changes.

Cultural Reference:

"Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability emphasizes that it is not weakness, but the birthplace of creativity, connection, and courage." – Psychology & Leadership Studies

Think About It:

Can being vulnerable sometimes make a person stronger or more relatable instead of weaker?

Quick Activity:

Write one sentence about a personal quality or skill that you think might be vulnerable to change over time—and how you could adapt.

Memory Tip:

“Vulnerable” comes from *vulnus*, Latin for “wound”—so if you can be “wounded,” you are vulnerable.

Real-World Application:

"Vulnerable" is widely used in mental health, sports, economics, and social justice. It helps frame discussions about risk, fragility, and the need for protection or adaptability.

Word-5: Enchant

Context:

Explanatory Paragraph:

"Enchant" means to captivate, delight, or charm someone deeply—often in a way that feels magical or spellbinding. In this context, it suggests that Roger Federer’s style of play has a graceful, almost mesmerizing quality that continues to win hearts, even as his physical abilities might decline with age. The word emphasizes emotional impact and admiration, portraying Federer not just as a great athlete, but as a performer who moves his audience.

Meaning: To delight or captivate completely; to charm (Verb)

Pronunciation: en-CHANT

Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic

Etymology: From Old French *enchanter*, from Latin *incantare* meaning “to chant a spell upon,” related to *cantare* (to sing)

Prashant Sir's Notes:

"Enchant" is a word that brings elegance and emotional beauty to writing. It’s perfect when describing anything that creates awe or fascination—whether a person, a performance, a place, or even an idea. Use it when something feels truly special, almost magical in its appeal.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms: charm, captivate, fascinate, delight, mesmerize

Antonyms: repel, bore, disillusion, disappoint

Usage Examples:

The fairy tale was written to enchant young readers.
Federer’s fluid movement on court continues to enchant tennis fans worldwide.
The singer’s voice enchanted the entire audience into silence.
She was enchanted by the beauty of the ancient city.

Cultural Reference:

"In J.K. Rowling’s *Harry Potter* series, enchantments are magical charms—but in real life, we often use 'enchant' to describe the spellbinding effect of art, music, or great performance." – Literary Language Commentary

Think About It:

What makes someone or something truly enchanting—skill, emotion, or a sense of mystery?

Quick Activity:

Think of a person, place, or experience that enchanted you. Write one sentence describing why it had that effect.

Memory Tip:

“Enchant” comes from *chanting spells*—so think of something so magical or beautiful, it feels like a spell has been cast on you.

Real-World Application:

"Enchant" is used in literature, marketing, travel writing, and reviews. It adds elegance when describing experiences or performances that delight and emotionally engage people.

CAT VA-RC 2017 Slot 2 Questions: Misfit Sentence (Q33)

📘 What’s Inside This CAT Misfit Sentence/Odd One Out Question Post?

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